Selma Paetz

Selma Jean Paetz (Wright) went to be with the Lord after complications resulting from Alzheimer's on February 10, 2018, in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 81. Jean was born March 19, 1936, in Bisbee, Arizona to Earl and Daisy Wright. She married Marvin in 1956. They lived in Bisbee, Arizona where their three children were born. Jean was blessed to be a full-time housewife and mother. In 1969 the family moved to Morenci, Arizona, with a short six-month stint in Duncan during a housing transition. Some of the part-time jobs Jean had later were in the Morenci High School cafeteria, veterinary receptionist in Clifton, and as the janitor at First Southern Baptist Church, of Morenci. Her children remember her as a kind, gentle, and patient mother who encouraged them to be their best. Camping trips were an annual event for the family. The love between Marvin and Jean was evident; even after 50 years they sat side-by-side like they were on their first date. Jean was accomplished at embroidery, sewing, and was an avid fan of bull-riding and The Lawrence Welk Show. She often made Marvin's shirts with sleeves long enough for his extra-long arms. She enjoyed helping in the clothing and food ministries of First Southern Baptist Church, in Morenci and First Southern Baptist Church, in Phoenix. Jean is survived by her children Mike & Debbie Paetz, Kathy & John Keller, and Karen Bennion of Phoenix, AZ; siblings, George Wright of Missouri and Elizabeth Eddins of California; grandchildren, Crystal & Erwin Gonzales, Brianna & Michael Munster, Adelynn & Brian Weisson and Garrett Bennion, great-grandchildren Konnor, Lucian, Matthew, Rosalee and Samantha Munster. She is preceded in death by Marvin Paetz, her husband of 50 years, her parents Earl and Daisy Wright, and brother Earl Wright, Jr. A graveside service is scheduled for February 16, 2018, 1 pm at Sheldon Cemetery, Sheldon, Arizona. A memorial service is scheduled for February 22, 2018 at First Southern Baptist Church, Phoenix. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jean's life. For their unparalleled, loving care, the family would like to thank Janette and Marci who cared for Jean while she was able to be home, and Gabriela and Tina who cared for Jean at Golden Age Residential Home.